Former SPT execs launch Lineup Industries

Former Sony Pictures Television execs Ed Louwerse (pictured, right) and Julian Curtis (left) have formed an Amsterdam-based international distributor called Lineup Industries, which will focus on formats and derived IP.

Former Sony Pictures Television (SPT) execs Ed Louwerse (pictured, right) and Julian Curtis (left) have formed an Amsterdam-based international distributor called Lineup Industries, which will focus on formats and derived IP.

The group – set to bring a slate of formats to MIPCOM next month – will offer a global approach and work with partners to “innovatively exploit the full value of rights it represents across all media platforms,” according to a statement.

Louwerse was previously MD and senior VP at SPT, where he oversaw international sales for titles such as Who Wants to be a Millionaire and Dragons’ Den. Prior to this role, he headed the international distribution division of Endemol, where he managed formats such as Big Brother and Deal or No Deal.

Before creating Lineup, Curtis oversaw formats distribution in territories in Asia Pacific and EMEA for SPT, also looking after titles such as Who Wants to be a Millionaire and Dragons’ Den. Previously, Curtis was at the Netherlands-based prodco 2waytraffic, and prior to this he established the finished program sales division at Endemol International.

“In a marketplace increasingly dominated by consolidation there is significant demand for a distributor that has straightforward, impartial processes,” said Louwerse in a statement. “As an independent agency we are ideally placed to maximize opportunities for IP owners, and free to select and work with the best and most suitable partners globally.”

Curtis added: “We believe there is a considerable opportunity in the market. We are a hands-on sales agent that can give creativity more opportunity by offering a bespoke service and strong global experience dealing with corporations, independents and individuals alike. Our size and capabilities also mean that we can streamline the deal process ensuring a simple, straightforward yet highly-supported operation.”